Say hello to the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4Matic Shooting Brake. The second-generation junior wagon is also recipient of the hot M260 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine, producing 306 PS at 5,800 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 3,000 to 4,000 rpm.
Mechanically, it’s the same as the regular C118 CLA 35. Equipped with the AMG Speedshift 7G dual-clutch transmission and AMG 4Matic (fully variable all-wheel drive), the Shooting Brake is just as quick in the century sprint, requiring just 4.9 seconds to do the deed. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Just like the C118, there are the usual drive modes – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. Race-Start is available as well, a function which allows maximum acceleration from standstill. When engaged, the exhaust system goes into full fart mode, complete with the typical AMG soundtrack on the overruns.
The CLA 35s are sprung the same as well – the front axle comprises a MacPherson strut layout, while the rear uses a four-link system. The former features a specific axle geometry to reduce torque steer, while an aluminium wishbone helps reduce unsprung weight. Optional adaptive dampers (AMG Ride Control) are available too, offering three settings, ranging from comfort-focused to sporty.
Other parts such as the brakes, AMG exhaust system, variable ratio steering rack, and optional AMG Track Pace data logger are all carried over from the regular CLA 35.
Design-wise, the face is identical to the four-door coupe, but the Shooting Brake has a distinct profile and rump. From the back, the view is dominated by the steeply angled windscreen (with an integrated wiper blade). Below, the tail lamps are the same, as are the bumper, diffuser with four fins and dual large oval-shaped exhaust exits.
Options include a range of 19-inch alloys in varying designs (it runs on 18-inch items as standard), AMG Night Package (blacked-out chrome trims and exhaust), as well as AMG Aerodynamics Package, which comprise of a modified front splitter, flics in the grilles, and a raised rear spoiler in gloss black.
Inside, things are unchanged. Fancy gizmos such as the digital instrument display and MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific displays are available, while the steering wheel is wrapped with Nappa leather. Everyone’s favourite 64-colour LED ambient lighting system is also present here.
Upgrades include the AMG leather package that comes with two-tone seat upholstery, Dinamica microfibre steering wheel, and brushed stainless steel door sills with illuminated AMG script.
According to Mercedes-AMG board chairman, Tobias Moers, the CLA 35 Shooting Brake features “agile vehicle dynamics and the flexible load compartment is an attractive alternative for young customers who lead an active life.”
Of course, expect the CLA Shooting Brake to get the full fat AMG 45 treatment as well. That will come with the new M139 engine, which is said to be the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine (again), with outputs cranked up to a whopping 415 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
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